Top New Jersey high school wrestler Anthony Knox Jr. is battling to regain his eligibility for the state championships after being disqualified due to a brawl involving his father at a recent tournament. His attorneys appeared in court Thursday, seeking an injunction that would allow him to compete until a full hearing is held.
The New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) disqualified Knox Jr. after he allegedly ran into the stands when his father, Anthony Knox Sr., got into an altercation with spectators. The incident has sparked controversy, with Knox’s family claiming they were responding to threats and racial slurs, while the West Deptford School District denies any wrongdoing.
Court Battle Over Knox Jr.’s Disqualification
Why Was Anthony Knox Jr. Disqualified?
Knox Jr., a senior at St. John Vianney High School, was removed from the championships after his father was involved in a physical confrontation at the District 25 Wrestling Tournament at Collingswood High School on February 22, 2025.
His attorneys argue that Knox Jr. was unfairly punished for simply trying to protect his family. They have filed an injunction in court to reinstate him while a proper hearing is conducted.
Key Court Updates:
- Attorneys are fighting to reinstate Knox Jr. for the championships
- A ruling on the injunction is still pending
- The NJSIAA investigation upheld the disqualification
What Happened at the Wrestling Tournament?
According to Anthony Knox Sr., tensions escalated when:
- Spectators were cursing at his son and wife
- Individuals allegedly used racial slurs against students
- He confronted the instigators, leading to a physical altercation
“I walked up into the stands and asked the guy to stop. At that point, I was assaulted. Never threw a punch. Never hurt anybody,” Knox Sr. said.
“I felt that my family’s lives and well-being were at risk, and that’s why I stepped in,” Knox Jr. added.
However, both father and son were the only ones arrested, and Knox Jr. was disqualified.
School Responses: St. John Vianney and West Deptford React
St. John Vianney High School’s Statement
The school issued a statement saying it:
- Respects the NJSIAA’s decision
- Does not condone violence
- Emphasized that the incident does not represent its values
West Deptford School District’s Response
The West Deptford School District, accused of instigating the altercation, denied all allegations in a lengthy statement:
- Claims of racial and vulgar slurs were investigated – no evidence found
- No complaints were filed against West Deptford fans or students
- Security and law enforcement did not witness any inappropriate behavior
- Reaffirmed commitment to sportsmanship and safety
“We remain committed to ensuring our students and fans are not placed in harm’s way,” the district said.
The district also stressed a “zero-tolerance” policy for misconduct moving forward.
The school district released the following statement Thursday:
“West Deptford School District is aware of the incident that took place on February 22, 2025, at the District 25 Wrestling Tournament hosted at Collingswood High School. This unfortunate event does not reflect the values of sportsmanship and respect that we uphold, and we do not condone physical confrontations at any sanctioned school event.
“We are also aware of the recent accusations that racial and vulgar statements that were allegedly made by individuals/fans associated with our school district. A thorough investigation into these claims has been conducted, and there is absolutely no evidence or witness testimony supporting these serious and defamatory allegations. Additionally, the NJSIAA has conducted its own investigation, and no complaints were filed during the event against anyone associated with West Deptford.
“Our students, fans, and coaching staff were in close proximity to security personnel and law enforcement throughout the event. At no point was anyone from our district addressed for inappropriate comments or behavior. Furthermore, our student-athletes competed with integrity and respect, and no officials reported any misconduct on their part.
“It is disappointing that our school district has been implicated in an incident that originated outside our community. We remain committed to ensuring that our students and fans are not placed in harm’s way. We have communicated with the host school, along with NJSIAA, that assures us that there will be a high level of security for spectator and student athlete comfort. There will be ‘ZERO TOLERANCE’ from coaches, athletes, and fans to ensure productive and sportsmanlike matches. As the postseason continues, we hope the focus remains on the student-athletes and their hard work. The West Deptford School District stands firmly in support of sportsmanship, safety, and the well-being of all participants and spectators.”
